Padres Rumors: Insider Doesn't Shut Door on Blake Snell Returning to San Diego

So, you're telling me that there is a chance?

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Blake Snell put together one of the better years in recent memory, and it is likely leading him to win his second Cy Young Award. Over 32 games started, Snell posted an ERA of 2.25 and a WHIP of 1.19.

He was virtually unhittable at times this past season, and with him entering free agency, he has earned himself a nice payday. However, it seems that it won’t be coming from the Padres in all likelihood, as it has been reported that the team is ready to allow him to walk.

But MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic still sees the Padres as one of the better fits for the veteran free agent, so a return isn’t completely out of the question.

“Blake Snell is the front-runner to win the NL Cy Young Award after a special season in which he went 14-9 with a 2.25 ERA and 234 strikeouts over 32 starts. He didn’t allow a run in five of his last six starts. Snell ranked in the 100th percentile in pitching run value and breaking run value. Opposing batters hit just .079 against his curveball, .185 against his changeup and .123 against his slider. I ranked Snell behind Montgomery and Nola based on the feedback I’ve heard from teams and because he’s pitched 180 innings only twice in his eight-year career and pitched fewer than 130 innings in the other six seasons.”

Per Jim Bowden of The Athletic

If the Padres did re-sign Snell, it would be welcomed by the entire fanbase. He has become a fan favorite during his time with the team, and it would be sad to see him leave.

But San Diego likely doesn’t want to tie themselves up on payroll to another older player, and that could end up seeing him go. He will cost more than the Padres are willing to pay to retain him, and Snell is likely headed to another team next season.

San Diego will need to find a way to replace Snell in the rotation, but it won’t be easy. He remains one of the better pitchers in the game today, so losing him will sting.

But President of Baseball Operations and General Manager A.J. Preller always seems to have a plan up his sleeve, and if they allow Snell to walk, trust that he has contingencies in place. They could look to replace him with another free agent who may cost a little less, or they could look at the trade market.

Either way, the Padres will likely find a replacement for Snell heading into next season. They do want to remain competitive, and they can only do that if they bring in more talent this offseason.